Central Florida Lakes

We all know that boaters have their go to spots. There is one place you can always count on when it comes to your day on the water. Some might be right in their own backyard, others might be a few hour drive to get to. Luckily, Central Florida has quite a few lakes that are utilized all day everyday, that warrants them being the most liked lakes around. In doing some research we’ve found the go-to lakes in Central Florida.

Lake Killarney: Approximately 60 percent of the surface area of Lake Killarney lies within Winter Park. Water levels in the lake are dependent on groundwater levels and do not fluctuate drastically during droughts, as other lakes in the area do. We all know that storms in Florida are inevitable, and during these storms an outfall structure located in a cove off of the north side of the lake will convey water through pipes to Lake Gem, in Maitland. This will help keep the water levels from getting to drastic, and will give you a piece of mind when we are in our dryer weeks during the summer months.

Lake Virginia: This large lake is surrounded by mostly mansions and the beautiful Rollins College. It has one small public boat launch, so you can bring your boat or paddle board or a kayak if that’s what you’re looking to do. This 1.56-acre year-round park is open from 8 a.m. until dusk and offers a fishing pier and boat ramp to the community. Swimming is allowed and boat permits are required. If boating is what your there for then permits are available at the Winter Park Library.

Lake Tohopekaliga: Also referred to as Lake Toho, is a native name meaning “we will gather together here,” is the largest lake located in Osceola County. It is the primary inflow of Shingle Creek. It covers 22,700 acres and spans 42 miles. Lake Toho is known for its bass fishing and bird watching. Lakefront Park is located at the north end of the lake and includes scenic walking paths with benches where visitors may view the area’s wide array of waterfowl, alligators, turtles and much more. Lakefront Park also has a miniature lighthouse, a children’s playground, a great place for a family day out on the water! Lake Toho is definitely the spot to be.

Lake Kissimmee: For boaters and nature lovers alike, Lake Kissimmee is the place for everyone to enjoy the wildlife Florida has to offer. With animals such as bald eagles, white tailed deer, alligators, turkeys, and more, there is never a dull moment. If you are looking for areas to explore on your day in the water make sure to check out the five islands in the lake. The largest is Brahma Island in the south. It is followed in size by Sturm Island in the north, which is separated from the mainland only by a narrow waterway. The other islands are Bird Island, Rabbit Island and Ox Island in the eastern part of the lake.

The Butler Chain: The Butler Chains of lakes are all very similar in that they are relatively deep for Florida lakes. This 4,720-acre chain is made up of 11 interconnected lakes with boat access only available at one county ramp, Lake Isleworth just south of Windermere. Fun fact; the Butler Chain of Lakes was formed as a result of a typical occurrence which is known as “karst topography”. Where limestone found under the majority of Florida soil is slowly dissolved by water to form sinkholes. A series of sinkholes formed over time creating what is now called the Butler Chain of Lakes. There are areas on these lakes that reach depths of 50 feet and are believed to be the remnants of those old sinkholes.